Jay Rockefeller: “I am proud to be a cosponsor of Senator Harkin's amendment to restore funding for the Edward Byrne Memorial State and…”

“I am proud to be a cosponsor of Senator Harkin's amendment to restore funding for the Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Program, because this program has been the bedrock for local justice systems to combat drugs and violent crime. At a time when public alarm over drugs and violent crime is escalating, it seems to me to be a penny-wise but pound-foolish decision to cut funding for such an effective grassroots program for law enforcement. Personally, I believe that one of the real strengths of the Byrne Program is that it is a formula grant that States and local communities can rely on to use as a foundation to fight crime year in and year out. The program helps forge a local partnership because it requires matching funds which ensure that communities are involved. This program fills a vital need, especially in rural areas, where community policing cannot be effective because of the nature of rural areas like West Virginia. All of our communities are concerned about violent crime, and all of them deserve Federal support and incentives.”